The European residency‑by‑investment landscape is shifting. Greece has introduced a financial‑investment option that bypasses real‑estate purchases, while Portugal’s once‑popular Golden Visa is confronting a collective lawsuit from about 500 investors. At the same time, Mauritius has launched a high‑value program targeting a limited number of applicants.
Greece’s new financial route
- The Greek Golden Visa, traditionally tied to a minimum €250,000 real‑estate purchase, now accepts banking products and fund investments as qualifying assets.
- This option was highlighted in an IMI Daily report on May 11 2026, noting that it offers “flexibility and a potentially less management‑intensive approach” for investors focused on portfolio diversification.
- The change comes as other European programs tighten real‑estate thresholds and tax reforms make rental‑yield calculations more complex, as discussed by IMI Daily on May 7 2026.
Portugal’s legal challenge
- Approximately 500 Golden Visa holders are preparing a collective lawsuit against the Portuguese state, according to IMI Daily on May 8 2026.
- The investors plan to “exhaust the Portuguese legal system and then assess what legal avenues exist at the European level,” reflecting concerns over recent policy changes and perceived instability in the program.
- Prospective applicants are advised to conduct thorough due diligence and seek expert guidance given the uncertainty surrounding the Portuguese scheme.
Mauritius’ high‑value Golden Visa
- Announced on May 6 2026, Mauritius’ program requires a US $1 million investment and promises a five‑day processing time.
- The government aims to admit 100 applicants per year, positioning the island nation as a new player in the global investment‑migration market.
Implications for investors
- Diversification vs. concentration: Greece’s financial route allows investors to avoid property management, while Portugal’s turmoil underscores the risk of policy shifts in established programs.
- Processing speed: Mauritius offers a notably rapid turnaround, but the high capital threshold may limit its appeal.
- Regulatory stability: The collective legal action in Portugal highlights the importance of monitoring legislative trends and potential challenges before committing funds.
Investors should compare investment thresholds, processing timelines, and the likelihood of future regulatory changes across programs to determine the most suitable residency‑by‑investment strategy.
Source article: apexcapital.one
